Hi everyone. I want to get a dash cam. Some requirements are
If you are looking to buy now.
Vicovation line with their quick mount brackets
2)Works with Mac computers
Almost any camera will work here just need a Micro SD to SD to USB card adapter
3)I think I want one with an internal battery but am open to options
This is the only down side most Vico models do not use batteries. I've never had an issue though
4)Auto start with ignition on and I assume auto loop??
Just about all DashCams have Auto loop. For Auto off you may have to hardwire it in if your cig socket has constant power, or buy a splitter with a switch
5)high quality and willing to spend up to $400 (portability would be nice)
Vicovation is worth a look here as well just about there whole line is high end. The WF1 and Marcus 3 are rather portable. the TF2 isn't to bad, and the quick release brackets make it a snap whether you use a suction or 3M stick. In the Marcus 3 case you can even use a rear view mirror mount with the bracket.
6)I am in US so purchasing from amazon most likely
The WF1 and Marcus 3 are both on Amazon
7)I already have 32 and 64gb Class10's micro cards
The WF1 and TF2 take up to 32GB cards The TF2 is a full sized. The WF1 a micro. The Marcus 3 can take a 64GB card out of the box.
If you are not looking to buy right away you should keep an eye on the GuardTrak series that
jokiin will be releasing.
I have first hand experience with the TF2, WF1, and Marcus 1. All good cameras. if you want something high end right now.
All 3 cameras are built really well and can stand up to a decent bit of heat. It comes down to a bit of what you prefer and need.
The TF2 is a very stable camera. It looks great in the daytime and at night time. It has a screen and dedicated audio mute button. It's one of the only cameras i know to offer a button that creates a one min locked file when you press a buton if something happens. Most other cameras i have seen lock the entire file segment.
The few down sides to the TF2 are it's size and no GPS
The WF1 works rather well with the latest firmware. it looks great day and at night. It does not have a screen so it is very tiny. It still retains the lock button that functions the same as the TF2 and uses WiFi and an app on Android and iOS to aim and set up the camera.
The only downside to the WF1 is no GPS
The Marcus 3 offers compact size while still retaining a screen. It shoots higher than 1080P Video. It has GPS but the antenna is external and sold separately. It retains the lock button and function like the WF1 and TF2. It is based on the new A7 chip so it is a bit of cutting edge technology.
The downside here is that the A7 chip is so new it has a few small issues that need to be ironed out, but nothing horrible, and Vico has been great in the past about getting issues fixed.
